June 11, 2023 - An Adventure through the Gulf Islands!
On June 11th we had two vessels that left Nanaimo and started their search down south through the Southern Gulf Islands and in the Strait of Georgia. The two vessels spread out to help cover more area and ended up going a long way in their search!
Our open boat started in Stuart Channel and followed it all the way down until it became Sansum Narrows. Crossing in this narrow passageway between Saltspring Island and Vancouver Island gets some spectacular views of one of the rarest ecosystems that we have here in BC, the Gary Oak meadows!
Gary Oak meadows are a unique and important ecosystem found on Vancouver Island and some of the Southern Gulf Islands. These meadows are characterized by the presence of Garry oak trees, a species of oak that is only found in western North America and which is the only native oak species in Canada. The meadows are home to a wide range of plant and animal species, many of which are rare or endangered. Additionally, the open grasslands of the meadows provide important habitats for a number of bird species, making them an important area for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Due to their ecological significance, Gary Oak meadows are often the focus of restoration and conservation efforts in the region, helping to preserve this valuable ecosystem for future generations. Getting to see them so close as we pass by is always a memorable experience.
They continued around Saltspring island, eventually ending up in Trincomali Channel, but not before stopping to view a haul out of harbour seals in Active Pass. After seeing the seals we continued all the way up north until we eventually found ourselves back in the Nanaimo Harbour.
Our semi-covered vessel ended up taking a similar route around the Southern Gulf Islands, but ended up poking outside of active pass and searching in the Strait of Georgia! But just like the open boat, they ended the day without any luck.
Even on days without whales, we hope that our guests enjoy the experience and all the other wildlife that calls the Salish Sea home. They will also get a chance to try again for free using their guaranteed sighting voucher!
All the wildlife photos from today were taken by the onboard naturalists Aly Kohlman and Vanessa Vereschahen and can be viewed below!
A very lazy harbour seal. Photo by Aly Kohlman.
Getting the harbour seals attention as a ferry crosses. Photo by Aly Kohlman.
And wake impact! This harbour seal is having its little mermaid moment. Photo by Aly Kohlman.
More harbour seals in the water around the haul out. Photo by Vanessa Vereschahen.
Photo by Vanessa Vereschahen.
Can you spot the baby bald eagle’s head in the shadows? Photo by Aly Kohlman.
The parents keeping an eye close by. Photo by Aly Kohlman.
Photo by Aly Kohlman.